MXL 990 $80
Condenser (Medium Diaphragm)
A cardioid condenser that is quiet
and smooth with enough mids to cut
through the mix when recording vocals,
acoustic guitar, and piano.

Shure SM 57 $99
The cardioid dynamic microphone
you see on so many different instruments
and applications. Its versatility
is a big plus. It’s also very rugged,
dependable, and incredibly affordable.
“SM” stands for “studio microphone,”
as this was originally to be an
alternative to the notoriously fragile
ribbon mics.
The Beta 57A ($139) is a
brighter supercardioid version, providing
more warmth, presence, and a
higher output level.

Shure SM 58 $99
Dynamic
The sibling of the SM 57 includes the
ball grille with the foam lining to provide
an extra degree of pop and wind
protection. Its durability has made it
a live performance staple.
The supercardioid
Beta 58A ($159) is designed
to be a live vocal mic, but its studio
applications can be likened to the SM
57 and Beta 57A.
Audio Technica
AT2020 $99
Condenser (Medium Diaphragm)
This medium diaphragm condenser
was designed with the home studio
owner in mind. Use it to record vocals,
acoustic instruments, strings, or as an
overhead mic for drums.

Audio Technica
AT4022 $349
Condenser (Small Diaphragm)
Omnidirectional condenser at an affordable
price — well-suited for midrange
frequencies. As with any omnidirectional
mic, a good acoustic environment
is key to capturing great tones.

Shure SM7B $349
Dynamic
Classic cardioid vocal mic with bass
roll-off and an impressive resume,
including many of Michael Jackson’s
most famous vocal ecordings. Also
widely used in broadcasting.
Sennheiser MD
421 II $380
Dynamic
Cardioid mic with a five-poistion bass
roll-off switch, which allows you to filter
out unwanted low frequencies.
Good mic for live and recording situations,
particularly for bass drum, brass,
and narration.

AKG D12 $499
Dynamic
The D12 VR is a large diaphragm cardioid
dynamic microphone. Specifically
designed for recording kick-drum,
this mic is widely used for bass guitar
as well.